A pathway dubbed the 'Wild West' due to common criminal activity and mystery surrounding its ownership is the responsibility of the City of London Corporation, it has emerged. 

Couples Kaye and Paul Green and Su and Terry Manning live in two houses at the top of Bridle Path, in Woodford Green. 

They say they are regularly kept awake at night because of fly-tipping, groups of youths congregating, drug taking and prostitution.

The couples also claim they are regualrly called upon to help motorists who become lost or get stuck in the mud and cars have been torched and abandon in the area after police chases. 

They say they are stressed by the "constant aggravation" of failing to confirm who was responsible for the path so action can be taken.

Despite both being told responsiblity is shared between the City of London Corporation and Waltham Forest council, it has now emerged the corporation is the sole owner of the track.  

A spokesman said: "We have recently adopted the unsurfaced section of The bridleway, which is beyond the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s ownership. 

"It is one of many Epping Forest tracks which are maintained at a rural standard more suitable for pedestrians and equestrians than cars. 

"By adopting the track we are looking to improve the situation on anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping there, which are of great concern to us. 

"We have met with the occupants of the properties to listen to their understandable concerns, and discussions on resolving these issues are ongoing."

Mrs Manning, 62, said: "All we ever wanted was for someone to take responsibility so we are over the moon. 

"They are going to work with us at long last. This is a great relief and finally a sign that things are moving forward."